Vilnius - The place to go in 2024

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, which celebrated its 700th anniversary this year, is thriving. But it wants more.  It could be the place to be in 2024.

With this in mind Lithuanian Airports has signed an investment agreement with LOT Polish Airlines to continue direct regular flights between Vilnius (VNO) and London City (LCY). Operating daily (except Wednesday and Saturday) the Embraer 190 service, with its 2+2 seating, provides an alternative to the low-cost operations at Luton and Stansted airports.

Direct flights to London are considered vital for inbound tourism and business connections. Previously operated under a different model (Public Service Obligation), this new approach replaces it due to changes following the UK’s exit from the European Union.

The flight development model, tested with London as a pilot destination, aims to meet the needs of Lithuanians in London, businesses, and visitors to Lithuania. It enhances Lithuania’s attractiveness for job creation and inbound tourism, according to government officials.  

At the beginning of 2023, major global news portals including CNN and the New York Times, announced Vilnius as one of the top recommended destinations.

The city is determined to continue this trend with a series of events starting what it calls “A quirky Christmas” www.govilnius.lt/christmas-in-vilnius-2023 with the Vilnius Light Festival on 25−28 January. This turns Vilnius Old Town and the city centre into a diverse outdoor show, but it is likely to be ‘crisp’ at that time of the year.

Moving on to the summer, Lithuania’s capital is organising the Vilnius Pink Soup Fest (6 June) dedicated to a local summer delicacy – cold beetroot soup. This has gained worldwide fame with the city radiated in pink and invited participants in a fascinating gourmet journey with locals and dignitaries dressed in various shades of pink, slide into a giant bowl of soup.  Many more quirky activities will await the visitors.  

This is followed by the 100th Lithuanian Song Festival taking place from 29 June−6 July.  

www.govilnius.lt

www.lot.com

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